Packing list for Philippines with kids

Undertaking a trip to the Philippines can be totally different from traveling to other destinations, especially with kids in tow. There is some level of discomfort to be factored with, as this is tropical country. While holidaying in new places unfolds the beauty of the new world before their young eyes, it is equally important to make things easy for them. This comprehensive family travel packing requirement list detailed here, will ensure the welfare and safety of your family and children while in the Philippines. 

Travel documents 

Every person, regardless of age, requires a valid passport to enter the Philippines. Ensure that every member of your family has this document before leaving the home country. Make and keep extra copies, in case of any eventuality. Citizens of most western counties are eligble for an automatic 29-days tourist visa upon arrival, and all they need to show is a valid passport and an exit ticket from the country. Some nationalities, such as India for example, require you to undergo an application process and secure your permits before arriving. 

Plan well 

Traveling on your own to a foreign destination can be quite different when traveling with an infant or children. Toting a baby while backpacking can become really cumbersome and exhausting. It is advisable to slow down the pace of your trip by reducing the number of destinations. Once you have zeroed down to your choice, check online at Agoda.com for hotel deals or philippinestravelpackage.com for complete trip packages, the two most reliable hotel sites in the Philippines, and look for hotels or hostels offering family friendly packages. 

Medication and first aid 

As Philippines is a tropical country, check with your local doctor about the vaccines which may be required. To deal with any untoward incident without having to look for a pharmacy, ensure the following on your medical list for kids: –

Thermometer
Paracetamol for children
Motion sickness tablets
Wipes/Sprays/antiseptic ointment
Antihistamines
Vitamins
First Aid box
Prescription medications 

For the total peace of mind go for travel insurance purchase. This is best done either through your local insurance specialist or online with Worldnomads.com. 

Clothes and accessories 

Deciding on the number of clothes to carry can be quite tricky. To be very frank, unless you have some affinity with your clothing, it is strongly advised to travel as light as possible-and more so when you have kids to worry about. Just pack the essentials to see you through the flight and the first few days on land, as you can easily get good replacements, dirt cheap, all over Philippines. In fact, you can even buy on a day to day basis and offload the stuff by disposal or donation when the trip is over. 

Kid friendly activities 

Parents dread the moment the tantrums the cranky child may give while on the flight or on the road. It is therefore imperative to carry a few things in a handy carry bag to tide over these embarrassing situations: – 

A story book
Toy
Water
Snacks, like energy bars or biscuits(this could be a lifesaver) 

Child carrier 

Carrying a child carrier will allow you enough freedom of movement, especially if your child is small. At the same time your child can sleep soundly without disturbing anyone. 

Other essentials 

Extra feeding bottles and ample formula milk, while on the plane or the road. Keep sterilization of the bottles in mind. Bear in mind the hot weather and wear comfy and breathable clothes.The roads are mostly broken and unpaved, so comfortable walking shoes are a must, more so for the toddlers to avoid any accidents. 

Diapers 

Depending on the number of times your baby may require a change, can let you know how many diapers to carry. Having said, there are many utility stores in Philippines where these are readily available. 

Sunscreen 

The weather in Philippines can become quite extreme at times, hence protection from UV rays is a must for the younger ones. Even a short walk in the open can give you a sunburn, so buy a good sunscreen with high SPF. Remember that you are on tour, so most of the time will be spent outdoors, either on the beach, or on the mountains or just sightseeing in the open, hence sun ray safety is vital. 

Philippines is such a vast archipelago nation, rich in heritage and culture, that it makes a visit there is worthwhile for the entire family. Having said that, elaborate care is required prior to commencing on the main journey to keep the mindset of the children in the forefront. 

 

** This is a guest post **